Watani, the UAE’s unique celebration of national identity, has announced the appointment of Yousef Al Shara as its new Director-General. The move comes as part of the efforts of the programme to ensure sustained progress of its campaigns and bring high caliber national talent into leadership roles.

A seasoned professional who has earlier held managerial positions in a leading federal organisation in the UAE, Al Shara possesses a wealth of experience in management, communication, protocol and human resource management.

In his previous role Al Shara was in charge of designing yearly training plans for employees along with annual strategies relevant to human resources functions within his organisation.

Al Shara received a master’s degree in Management from the UK in 2007, and a master’s in Military Sciences from the UAE Command and Staff College in 2006.

“It is a great honor to be part of Watani and steer the organization through the next stage of its stated goals. The Watani team has done a commendable job over the last five years, successfully conveying the noble messages of our nation and leadership to the people,” said Al Shara.

“I look forward to working with such a team and I am confident their professionalism and dedication will inevitably lead the programme into further successes and achievements,” added Al Shara.

Watani aims at strengthening the national identity and practices of good citizenship among all sections of the society. It represents a continuation of the achievements that began with the formation of the UAE Federation.

Launched under the directives of H.H Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Watani works to strengthen national identity as well as adherence to the UAE culture and values through activities targeting citizens and residents across the UAE.